Dealing With Race In Boston

Back in February, just before New England Patriots faced the Atlanta Falcons in the Super Bowl, comedian Michael Che said this on "Saturday Night Live's Weekend Update":

For three hours, I just don't want to talk about any social issues or politics. I just want to relax, turn my brain off, and watch the blackest city in America beat the most racist city I've ever been to.

Last Thursday, Che came to Boston University. He told students that he stood by those comments about Boston being the most racist city he's ever been to, despite the social media backlash he faced. He gave an example of one particularly irate woman. He told her, "Talk to your closest black friend and ask them to explain it to you." Her response? "Touché."

Later on Instagram, Che added: "Listen Boston, my grandma is racist too, but i still love her. & i still love you."

Boston undoubtedly has a troubled history when it comes to racism. But is it still racist today? Compared to what?

Jamarhl Crawford, creator and editor of Blackstonian, a news and commentary publication and website representing Boston's black community. He tweets at @jamarhlakauno and @Blackstonian.

Michael Curry, immediate past president of the Boston branch of the NAACP and currently a member of the national NAACP Board of Directors.